Farmer's Markets accepting WIC vouchers

Tyler, TX (KETK) — The state of Texas is trying to help low income families have fresher food to eat, by fresher and we mean home grown.

The Northeast Public Health District is looking at a change in their system through food vouchers they now want to offer the same choices we all have.

"We are hoping that we reach all of our population and that everyone can take advantage of of the great produce we that we produce here right in East Texas."

Some farmer's markets in East Texas will soon be accepting WIC vouchers from May through September.

"Hoping the Farmer's Markets to accept WIC benefits or SNAPP benefits and build them up and sustain them," says Stephanie Taylor, NET Health.

NET Health has been working with the Texas Department of Agriculture to provide an additional $20 distributed by 'The Farmer's Market Nutrition Program'.

The program offers a booklet of five vouchers of $4 each dollars for the season.

"We are excited that our WIC clients will have the opportunity to go to Farmer's Markets to get fresh fruit and veggies for themselves as new mothers for their and their families," says George Roberts, Chief of Net Health.

WIC is a program which provides foods, health care referrals and nutrition education at no cost to low-income pregnant women, and families children up to 5 years of age, who are found to be at nutritional risk.

WIC Program Director in Tyler tells KETK, in the state of Texas, 34% of families suffer from food insecurities and assistance is needed in East Texas.

"We found this in research that it is an issue and concern so it allows them availability of fresh foods and vegetables," says Tecora Smith, WIC Program Director.